Chapter 6

Chapter Six

As Bennett led Delphine into the library, she let out a slight gasp as she beheld the grandeur of the room. Bookshelves lined the walls, and sunlight streamed in through two large windows, casting a gentle glow across the room.

Delphine came to a stop in the center of the room, her hands stretched out wide. "There are so many books here," she said. "I do not think I have ever seen such an enormous library before."

"I daresay that you are easy to impress," Bennett teased, secretly pleased with her reaction. He had always loved this room and spent every opportunity that he could in it.

Walking over to one of the bookshelves, Delphine ran her hand along the spines and asked, "What book shall I select?"

"Any one that strikes your fancy, I suppose."

A mischievous glint came into Delphine's eyes. "Are there any books written by ladies in here?"

Bennett nodded. "Despite my father's objections on women writers, his collection does boast many of them."

"What about the ones that were written by ‘A Lady'?"

"I doubt those two books are in here," Bennett replied. "More than likely they are in my sisters' bedchambers. "

Delphine turned her attention back towards the books. "This library puts mine to shame," she said.

"It isn't a contest," he joked.

"Perhaps not, but there are so many first editions in here," Delphine said as she pulled out a book and inspected it.

Bennett stepped closer to her but was mindful to maintain a proper distance. "My grandmother was an avid reader. She felt reading a book a day led to her longevity."

Delphine looked at him in disbelief. "A book a day? Surely, you jest."

"She did little else but read," Bennett admitted. "I have never seen a woman devour so many books."

A wistful look came into Delphine's eyes. "I wish I had the time to read as much as your grandmother. I feel as if I am in constant meetings with my man of business, stewards, land agents, and tenants."

"I am sure you can delegate some of those meetings to others," Bennett encouraged.

Delphine shook her head. "I am fanatical when it comes to knowing the minute details of my business since I am ultimately responsible for my successes or failures."

Bennett found himself nodding in agreement with Delphine's philosophy, understanding the consequences of becoming too complacent with one's business.

Leaning his shoulder against the bookshelf, he confided, "Recently, we discovered that our man of business was stealing from us. He was taking the money meant for the upkeep of the village and squandering it on gambling and other bad business deals." He paused. "If it wasn't for my cousin who discovered his deceit, he could have ruined us."

"That is one of my fears, to place trust in the wrong person," Delphine shared.

Without hesitation, he declared, "You can trust me."

Delphine smiled and it spilled over into her eyes. "I do," she said. "Perhaps it has something to do with you saving my life."

Bennett couldn't resist puffing out his chest slightly. "I don't often get to save a damsel in distress, but when I do, I do it well."

"Well, the doctor told me how close I came to dying so I do believe I owe you my life," Delphine said.

"As I have said before, you owe me nothing," Bennett insisted. "I am so grateful that I was there to help you."

"I think it goes without saying but so am I," Delphine responded.

Bennett brought up his hand and rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "By saving your life, do I get three wishes?"

Delphine's laughter filled the room, a joyous sound that warmed his heart. "That is only if you save a genie," she said.

"My mistake," Bennett responded, dropping his hand. "But I do have something I want you to do for me."

"What is it?"

Bennett glanced at the open door. "I think I would like to play a joke on Elodie, assuming you have no objections."

Delphine turned to face him. "What do you have in mind?"

In a low voice, Bennett replied, "You have certain traditions in Scotland, do you not?"

"We do," Delphine replied. "My father was insistent that I grew up knowing our heritage."

"What if we played into those traditions?" Bennett asked.

A line between Delphine's brow appeared. "Meaning?"

Bennett leaned forward and replied, "What if I brought in a bagpiper to regale us with music every morning? Perhaps just outside of Elodie's window- say at dawn?"

Delphine looked unsure. "Would she not get angry with us?"

"Not if we said it was to help you recover your memories," Bennett replied. "Besides, Elodie has been relentless in following us around. She is even outside in the corridor as we speak."

Shifting her gaze towards the door, Delphine asked, "How do you know?"

"I saw her peeking in just a moment ago," Bennett replied. "I think it is time to teach her a lesson."

"I do not wish to upset Elodie since she has been so kind to me," Delphine said.

"Trust me. My sister is many things, but she does have an excellent sense of humor. Like me. I am constantly being told how amusing I am."

Delphine grinned. "Who are these people?" she asked. "I only wonder because it sounds as if they are imaginary."

Bennett chuckled. "I do not have imaginary friends. At least, not anymore."

"But you had them?"

"Not exactly, but I wanted one," Bennett replied. "My nursemaid once told me a story about how our ancestors roamed the halls of our home, and I was adamant about wanting to see them. I set up a fort in the corridor where all the family's portraits are hung and waited for one of them to appear. But they never came. Night after night went by and I didn't see one ghost."

"I take it that you gave up."

"Only because my parents refused to let me keep the fort in the corridor and gave my nursemaid a stern reprimand," Bennett said. "I was disappointed, though. I have never seen a ghost, but I do believe they exist."

Delphine shuddered. "I have no desire to see a ghost."

"Not even if it was a family member?" Bennett asked. "What of your mother?"

She grew silent. "It would be nice to see my mother again."

Bennett's lips twitched. "What if we built a fort and wait to see if your mother appears?" he suggested .

"Why would she appear at your country estate?"

"Why not?" Bennett asked. "She might want to meet me."

Delphine gave him an amused look. "If ghosts are real- and I'm not saying they are- why would my mother want to meet you when she could meet anyone from the beginning of time?"

Bennett smirked. "Because, my dear, I saved your life. And that makes me the most important person in your life."

"You are far too cocky, my lord," Delphine remarked.

"Am I?" Bennett asked. "I think I am the right amount of cockiness for an earl, especially one that is as handsome as me."

Delphine rolled her eyes. "Now you have passed the cockiness threshold. I would curtail it a bit."

Bennett held her gaze. "But you didn't deny that I was handsome."

"You are… adequate," Delphine replied.

"Merely adequate?" Bennett asked. "I did save your life. Should that not count for something?"

Delphine pressed her lips together before saying, "Fine, my lord. Some might consider you handsome enough to tempt them."

"Are you one of those people?"

An adorable blush came to Delphine's cheeks as she ducked her head. "I would prefer if we spoke about books since we are in the library."

Bennett decided to take pity on Delphine, even though he very much hoped that she found him attractive. For she had beguiled him by her beauty. But it wasn't just her beauty that tempted him. No, it was much more than that. It was her kindness, her determination, and the way she made everything that much more enjoyable.

Remaining close, Bennett reached for a book and held it up. "What of this book? "

Delphine brought her gaze back up and studied it. "I do not think I should read a book on religion."

"Whyever not?"

"Women are supposed to avoid certain topics…"

Bennett spoke over her. "Do you intend to obey all of the rules of high Society?"

"Well, no, but…"

"Read the book, Delphine," Bennett urged. "Who cares what Society says is appropriate to read? The more you read, the more questions arise, encouraging you to seek out the truth."

Delphine accepted the book with a thoughtful look. "Do you promise not to tell?"

"Who would I tell, Delphie?"

Her eyes widened. "My mother used to call me that," she said softly.

"I could use another nickname," Bennett suggested. "Lina, Phin, Delly, Fifi…"

Delphine put a hand on his sleeve, stilling his words. "I would prefer if you called me Delphie," she said. "Besides, those other nicknames are awful, especially Fifi."

"I know. I was trying too hard," Bennett said.

"What of you?" Delphine asked. "Do you have a nickname?"

Bennett shrugged. "You could call me Ben, Bennie, or En."

Delphine studied him for a moment as she removed her hand. "I think I shall keep calling you Bennett. It suits you."

Letting out a sigh of relief, Bennett said, "Good, because all of my suggestions of nicknames were awful."

"Why did you suggest them then?"

"For fun," Bennett replied with a smile. "You could always call me your hero. Or Lord of Handsomeness."

Delphine let out a huff. "You are relentless, my lord."

"Relentlessly handsome?" Bennett asked .

"Good heavens, you must be drunk." Delphine tsked. "And at such an early hour, my lord."

"Only drunk on you," Bennett bantered with a flirtatious smile.

Delphine made a face. "That was awful. Truly awful," she declared. "I think I would rather tour the library on my own."

Bennett straightened and took a step back. "Very well," he said. "But I need to set our plans in motion."

"What plans?"

"You are about to be transported back into Scotland," Bennett said with an exaggerated bow. "And I assure you that it will be spectacular."

Delphine held her hand up. "Wait," she said. "What if we start small? Perhaps invite a bagpiper to join us over dinner first."

Bennett bobbed his head. "Good idea. I will see what I can do."

As Bennett departed from the library, he wasn't quite sure what ideas he wanted to implement but he hoped his plan would goad Elodie. He could see her peeking out of a closet at him, and he didn't bother to acknowledge her.

The sun streamed in through the windows of the library as Delphine read her book on the religions of the world. It was fascinating to learn about other people's beliefs.

Elodie entered the room and Delphine promptly closed the book, finding herself feeling embarrassed at being caught reading such a book.

With a curious look, Elodie asked, "Dare I ask what you were reading?"

"Nothing of note," Delphine replied hastily .

Elodie approached her, looking unconcerned. "If you were reading a naughty book, I promise I won't tell."

"What is a ‘naughty book'?" Delphine asked.

As she sat down on a chair, Elodie lowered her voice and replied, "Anything where kissing or other things are discussed."

Delphine lifted her brow. "What do you know about ‘other things'?"

"Not much, considering no one speaks about such things, but I have read a book or two on anatomy," Elodie replied. "I do believe I got the gist of it."

"I'm afraid I know nothing about such things," Delphine admitted.

Elodie glanced down at the book in her hand. "Then, pray tell, what were you reading that caused you to act so squeamish?"

Delphine decided to just tell her the truth and be done with it. She held up the book. "It is a book on the various religions of the world."

"Is that all?" Elodie asked. "I have read that book before and it is not the least bit scandalous."

"Your father lets you read these books?"

Elodie grinned. "No, but my father doesn't always know what I am up to."

Delphine turned her head towards the bookshelves that were filled with books. "I find that I am rather envious of all the books that your family has acquired over the years. I daresay that my library is lacking at home."

"Why have you not acquired more books?"

"I suppose it hasn't been a priority since I have been so busy tending to my other tasks," Delphine admitted.

"Is there anything more important than reading?" Elodie asked. "It transports me to another place, another time, where I am not so odd. "

Delphine could hear the sadness in her voice, prompting her to say, "You are not odd."

"I am, but thank you for saying so," Elodie said. "It is hard being the way I am when Melody is so perfect."

"No one is perfect."

Elodie sighed. "Melody and I may look alike but that is where the similarities stop. Melody acts the part of a proper lady and I do not. There are too many things that I want to do with my life to give it all up by getting married."

"I understand that feeling all too well," Delphine said.

"I know you do, which is why I feel comfortable telling you such things," Elodie remarked. "When we go to Town for the Season, I will be dressed up and paraded around as if I am merely on display."

Delphine offered her an encouraging smile. "Do not fret. I will be there as well."

"Yes, but you are a countess with your own fortune," Elodie said. "If I do not marry- and well- I am nothing."

Moving to the edge of her seat, Delphine held Elodie's gaze. "That is rubbish. You are more than just a debutante seeking a groom. You have so much to offer the world. You just have to discover what that is."

Elodie gave her a weak smile. "Thank you, but you are the lucky one. You don't have to marry to have a future."

"Some people do find happiness within the bounds of marriage," Delphine said. "Don't discount what you do not know."

"I would rather be ridiculously wealthy and not have to answer to anyone."

Delphine laughed. "Wouldn't that be nice? But everyone answers to someone; even our king does."

A knock came at the door, interrupting their conversation.

Bennett stepped into the room and bowed. "Pardon the interruption but pall-mall has been set up on the lawn. "

Elodie jumped up from her seat. "What fun! I haven't played pall-mall in ages."

Rising, Delphine asked, "Do you think that is wise if I play?"

"I do," Bennett replied. "But just as a precaution, I asked the servants to place extra chairs around the lawn so you may sit at any point."

"That is most thoughtful of you," Delphine acknowledged.

Bennett approached her and offered his arm. "May I escort you to the lawn, my lady?" he asked.

Delphine moved to put the book onto the table before placing a hand on his sleeve. "You may."

In a low voice, Bennett asked in a teasing voice, "How did you enjoy reading such a scandalous book?"

"It was rather informative," Delphine admitted.

Elodie spoke up. "I need to go retrieve a bonnet from my bedchamber. I will meet you on the lawn," she said before hurrying out of the room.

As Bennett led them into the corridor, Delphine said, "Elodie is an intriguing person."

"That is one word for it," Bennett quipped.

"No, I am serious," Delphine remarked. "I do believe she is trying her best, and you should try to support her."

Bennett glanced over at her. "Where is this coming from?"

Delphine didn't want to betray Elodie's confidences, so she was careful to skirt around the truth. "We had a conversation, and I am beginning to see her for who she truly is."

"She is a hoyden, but she does have a good heart," Bennett said.

"That she does and I hope you don't put too much pressure on her to wed," Delphine stated.

Bennett came to a stop in the corridor and turned to face her. "I do not care if Elodie weds. "

"You don't?" Delphine asked.

He shook his head. "I only care that my sister is happy. If she chooses to be a spinster, I shall support her decision."

Delphine stared deep into Bennett's eyes and saw that he was in earnest. "I believe you," she said. "You are a good brother and so different than the other men of the ton ."

"I am flattered that you think so," he responded.

While they descended the stairs, Delphine shared, "My cousin, Vincent, is truly awful. He has been trying to contest my title for as long as I can remember, and before that, it was his father. He smiles to my face but would gladly put a dagger in my back if given the chance."

"On what grounds does Vincent contest your position as heir?"

Delphine blew out a puff of air. "It is simply because I am a woman. No one has given them much heed, but they keep trying, nevertheless."

"Well, if you require a barrister, I can highly recommend my brother," Bennett said.

"It has not come to that… yet. But the future is uncertain."

Bennett regarded her with a pensive expression. "Would it help if you secured an heir?"

Delphine's lips formed a slight frown as she replied, "It would help, but I am not quite ready to marry. I have so much that I want to do with my life first. A husband, or child, would be an imposition at this point. Quite frankly, I am content on my own, at least for now."

In a reflective tone, Bennett said, "I used to think that way- and still do, at times. But I do find myself feeling lonely on occasion. It would be nice to truly trust someone, to let them in, and be utterly devoted to one another."

"I do not wish to offend you but that sounds like a fairy tale," Delphine stated. "Love is easily corruptible. "

Bennett chuckled. "You are quite the naysayer."

"No, I am a pragmatist."

As he led her out the main door that was being held open by a footman, Bennett leaned closer and joked, "Perhaps you should write a book and use that line as the title."

Delphine felt her lips curl into a smile. "I know you believe in the mystical force called love, but it is just that- ‘mystical.'"

"Love is real," Bennett said firmly. "You just haven't met the one you can't live without."

"I could not disagree with you more," Delphine argued. "I have only seen unhappy marriages, including my parents'. The mere thought of love matches is utterly preposterous."

Bennett seemed to consider her words thoughtfully before responding, "I want to marry my best friend. A woman who makes me want to be a better man. Someone who I can talk about my day and laugh with. An equal in every way." He paused, his gaze piercing. "If you did have a chance at love, would you fight for it?"

Delphine was taken aback by the raw emotion that Bennett displayed, and she hoped that he would find someone who shared his passion and ideals about love. But it couldn't be her. She didn't believe in love- or at least that is what she kept telling herself.

Feeling a need to lighten the conversation, she patted Bennett's sleeve gently. "Perhaps it is you that should write a book. I must say that your take on love would be much more appealing than mine."

Bennett let out a heavy sigh. "If I did write a book, it would be extremely popular and I am not sure if I am ready for that type of notoriety."

"Of course not, my lord," Delphine said as her eyes scanned over the expansive lawn. True to Bennett's word, there were chairs spread throughout the lawn, including one next to each arch that had been set up .

"Will that be enough chairs?" Bennett asked.

Delphine slipped her hand off his arm as she turned to face him. "It might be too many chairs."

"One can never be too prepared," Bennett said.

She couldn't help but notice a red-haired young woman standing next to Elodie and Melody and she was stretching with a mallet in her hand.

Bennett followed her gaze. "That is Miss Bawden. She is the eldest daughter of our dear vicar."

"What is she doing?"

"I would think it is fairly obvious," Bennett replied. "She is stretching."

Delphine pressed her lips together. "But, why?"

Bennett shrugged. "I don't rightly know, but she has been doing so since we were little. I should warn you that she is very competitive."

"That is not the least bit surprising since she is stretching for a game of pall-mall," Delphine remarked.

Turning his head towards the manor, Bennett said, "But you need to prepare yourself when my brother arrives. A game with Miss Bawden and my brother never ends well."

"Then why did you arrange this game?"

A boyish grin came to Bennett's lips. "Oh, I assure you that it is quite entertaining for the rest of us."

"You are awful," Delphine murmured.

"Trust me, you are in for a fun-filled afternoon." Bennett gestured towards a chair. "Would you care to sit while I select a mallet for you?"

Delphine was about to refuse but she had to admit that she was rather tired. Rather than fight Bennett on this, she decided to graciously accept his offer. "Thank you, Benny."

"Benny?" he repeated. "It almost sounds as if you are calling me a bunny. I thought we decided that we would stick with my given name. "

"We did, but I was just trying something out," Delphine said.

Bennett's eyes held amusement as he replied, "I do enjoy how much you are trying, but you must let it come naturally."

"Like you do?"

"Precisely," Bennett replied. "Now, do you have a specific color of mallet that you would prefer?"

"I do not," she replied.

Bennett held her gaze a moment longer than would be considered proper, but she didn't mind. She rather enjoyed admiring his blue eyes. They held a warmth to them that made her want to linger there.

"Delphine!" Elodie shouted.

Turning her head, she watched as Elodie, Melody and Miss Bawden approached them. They came to a stop in front of her and Elodie gestured towards Miss Bawden. "Lady Dunrobin, may I introduce Miss Bawden, our dear friend."

Miss Bawden dropped into a curtsy. "My lady."

Delphine tipped her head in response. "It is a pleasure to meet you," she said. "I have heard that you are rather competitive in pall-mall."

"It is true, but my lucky blue mallet let me down a few weeks ago," Miss Bawden shared, holding up the mallet. "Lord Dunsby and I lost to Lord Hilgrove and Edwina by one point."

"You have a lucky mallet?" Delphine inquired.

Miss Bawden bobbed her head. "I do, but I do not think it is magical anymore."

Delphine shifted her gaze to Elodie and Melody since she was not quite sure what to make of Miss Bawden. Was she in earnest?

Melody gave her an understanding look. "I assure you that Miss Bawden is not mad, but she is rather serious about pall-mall. "

Before she could respond, Miss Bawden let out a groan. "You didn't tell me that Lord Winston was playing today."

Elodie gave her a look filled with innocence. "Didn't I?" she asked. "That must have slipped my mind."

Delphine turned her head to see Winston approaching, and by the look on his face, he didn't seem pleased to see Miss Bawden either.